Sexual dysfunction following treatment for prostate cancer: nursing assessment and interventions

Treatment modalities for prostate cancer include surgery, radiation therapy, and hormonal manipulation. Sexual dysfunction is a potential sequela of these treatments. Ideally, nursing interventions are begun before treatment is initiated. Pertinent questions enable nurses to elicit specific information needed to develop the patient's care plan. Sexual assessment strategies and interventions, such as the PLISSIT model, that can be implemented when caring for these patients are presented.